Tourism continuing to boost economy in Sussex

Tourism continues to play a vital role in the economy of East and West Sussex, according to new research released by Experience Sussex.

The organisation, which leads the official visitor economy development programme for both counties, says the latest figures highlight the scale and value of tourism for local businesses across the region. The Economic Impact of Tourism in East and West Sussex report shows that during 2024, visitors made more than 50.6 million trips, generating over £4.06 billion for the local economy. The figures do not include Brighton and Hove.

The report also reveals a sharp rise in international tourism, with the number of overseas visitors staying in East and West Sussex increasing by 21 per cent compared with 2023. Experience Sussex says this reflects growing global interest in the area’s towns, countryside and coastline.

Data from the report shows that overnight visitors continue to contribute more to the local economy than day trippers. In 2024, around 5.4 million overnight stays generated £1.384 billion, while 45.1 million day visits contributed £1.599 billion. Overseas visitors staying in the region, estimated at 911,000 people, added a further £356.5 million to the economy.

Experience Sussex says the findings underline the importance of supporting tourism-related businesses, which range from accommodation providers and attractions to hospitality and transport services.

All businesses operating within the visitor economy in East and West Sussex can access free support through the programme. This includes marketing assistance, training opportunities, networking events and guidance on available grants and funding.

Experience Sussex is co-funded by East Sussex County Council and West Sussex County Council. The programme is also accredited by Visit England and Visit Britain as co-secretariat for the Local Visitor Economy Partnership, working alongside Visit Brighton to strengthen the region’s tourism offer.

Councillor Garry Wall, West Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for economic development said: “Sussex has a world class offer with some of the finest places to visit, stay, and experience in the UK. This latest report underlines the vital role that Experience Sussex plays in driving economic growth through attracting international visitors and encouraging more overnight stays. By doing this, we can boost and disperse valuable visitor spend across a wide range of businesses and local destinations.  

“Experience Sussex supports West Sussex County Council’s plan to build a sustainable, thriving economy by showcasing the best of our region- from Selsey to Rye, and from the coast up to the Downs and the Weald – to the whole world.” 

Councillor Penny di Cara, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for economy, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see the growth in overseas visitor numbers and their overnight stays to Sussex last year, and the important contribution this makes to the region’s economy. 

“This report highlights the success of Experience Sussex in harnessing the Sussex brand, supporting the visitor economy, and boosting other tourism marketing work across the region as well as the programme’s ongoing work to attract high spending visitors to the area.   

“I would strongly encourage businesses that operate in the Sussex tourism sector to get in touch with the Experience Sussex team to access the free support and advice available.”